Chapter 274

If Alexander Whitmore hadn't brought her here, Evelyn Carter would never have discovered the breathtaking rose garden on the southern outskirts of Crestview.

This wasn't part of the Whitmore family estate.

It was Alexander's private sanctuary—a hundred-acre field dedicated solely to the cultivation of Crimson Belle roses.

Beneath the fiery hues of the setting sun, the lush greenery and vibrant crimson blossoms shimmered like liquid rubies.

The sight of the fully bloomed garden captivated Evelyn, offering her a rare moment of peace.

Couples wandered leisurely, snapping photos, while influencers broadcasted the picturesque scenery to their followers.

For Evelyn, who had been drowning in work-related stress for weeks, this was a much-needed escape.

The striking couple drew envious glances from passersby.

They looked like a pair sculpted by destiny—flawless, radiant, and undeniably perfect together.

Evelyn bent down, her delicate fingers brushing against a velvety petal as if tracing a lover's lips.

She inhaled deeply, her nose crinkling in delight as the intoxicating fragrance enveloped her.

Alexander's gaze darkened, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

Evelyn.

A name as enchanting as the woman herself—more mesmerizing than any flower in this garden.

Evelyn laughed softly. "I know I'm stunning, but thank you for the compliment, Mr. Whitmore."

Alexander stepped closer, his voice laced with quiet intensity. "If I called you Evelyn like I used to, would you call me Alex again?"

Her lashes fluttered, her back still turned to him.

The weight of his lingering childhood affection made her uneasy.

To her, Alexander Whitmore was nearly a stranger now.

After a brief hesitation, she replied politely, "Perhaps—once we get to know each other better."

"I have no doubt we will." His voice was firm, resolute. "I'll wait for you."

The tension in the air thickened.

Eager to shift the conversation, Evelyn straightened, adopting a businesslike tone.

"Mr. Whitmore, what's the annual yield of this field? What are your cultivation costs? Do you have any exclusive corporate contracts?"

Alexander chuckled, adjusting his glasses. "Ms. Carter, are you proposing a partnership?"

"Honestly? Yes."

The moment she stepped into this garden, possibilities had ignited in her mind.

Since returning to Monarch Group, she had been itching to expand into the cosmetics industry—specifically, a rose-themed luxury skincare line.

But Harrison Kingsley had insisted she focus on strengthening Monarch Grand Hotels first, leaving her ambitions stifled.

Now, standing amidst this sea of blossoms, her determination flared anew.

"The Crimson Belle rose, or Rosa Damascena, has roots in ancient mythology," she explained, her eyes alight with passion.

"It symbolizes Aphrodite's beauty and Adonis's vitality—a timeless emblem of love and allure."

She gestured to the field. "Its essential oil is exceptionally rare, affecting both body and soul. Imported roses are costly, and very few estates cultivate them domestically."

Alexander watched her, his expression unreadable.

He barely registered her business pitch.

Over the years, countless investors had coveted his rose fields—yet he had never entertained their offers.

This garden, this dazzling spectacle, existed for one reason alone: Evelyn.

When he remained silent, she misinterpreted his hesitation.

She laughed lightly. "I know my proposal is sudden. And it's not a small venture. Take your time to consider—I'm in no rush."

Outside Whitmore Gardens, Theodore Winslow stood in the fading light, his thoughts tangled.

He observed the endless sea of roses, acutely aware of the deep ties between the Whitmores and the Kingsleys—especially between Alexander and Harrison.

He knows exactly what he's doing.

Evelyn had always kept men at arm's length.

She had cut off Julian Montgomery without hesitation.

Yet with Alexander, she seemed... different.

Less guarded.

More willing to engage.

Of course, the fact that he had saved her from that knife attack played a role.

But Theodore couldn't shake the feeling that Evelyn was allowing Alexander closer than anyone else.